Kearney Man Heads to Jail after Sixth DUI

CUSTER COUNTY—After five previous Buffalo County convictions of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, Carl D. Royle appeared in District Court in Broken Bow and pled not guilty to two charges.

The 65-year-old Kearney man currently faces charges of driving under the influence–sixth offense—aggravated (class II felony) and driving under suspension (class IIA felony).

According to County Attorney Steve Bowers and Royle’s attorney Mike Borders, Royle was in a “bad” car accident as a result of the November 2017 DUI in Custer County. Both men said Royle has been showing up to all hearings and appointments, and has been cooperative.

Judge Karin Noakes said in court she needs assurance that Royle is not driving, otherwise he will go to jail. After taking a long pause to review the information, Judge Noakes said she could not follow the recommendation of Bowers and Borders, who suggested a personal recognizance bond.

“My concern is not that you won’t show up but that you will get in a car and kill someone. We can’t take a risk on this,” Judge Noakes said. “I believe Mr. Royle being released would put persons in the community at risk.”

Royle was taken into custody by the Custer County Sheriff’s Office with a $200,000 bond, ten percent privilege and he will also be subject to random chemical testing.

If convicted, Royle could face up to 70 years imprisonment and 15-year license revocation, with a mandatory minimum of two years imprisonment. A jury trial was set for June 2018.